2012 Chateauneuf du Pape

Opaque ruby. Highly aromatic bouquet of black raspberry, peppery spices and potpourri, with a zesty mineral nuance providing focus. Spicy and penetrating, with very good clarity to its lively flavors of red berry preserves, rose pastille and spicecake. Shows potent floral and spicecake character on the long, gently tannic finish, which leaves a hint of smoky minerals behind.

The 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape is a mid-weight, medium-bodied effort that has complex olive, tobacco leaf, cured meats and sweet currant fruit. A blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 6% Mourvedre and the rest a mix of permitted varieties, aged in a combination of concrete, foudre, tank and small barrels, it has building tannin and a classical, balanced feel on the palate, but I'd still love a smidge more concentration. Nevertheless, it's borderline outstanding and I suspect it will have over a decade of longevity.

Deep ruby. Lively aromas of fresh red berries, potpourri and Asian spices, with a hint of blood orange adding an exotic flourish. Smooth, seamless and focused on the palate, offering vibrant, mineral-tinged raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a touch of anise. Supple tannins come on late and add shape to the long, sweet, penetrating finish.